By Stanley Onyeka, Lagos
Consumer goods giant, PZ Cussons plc and Singapore-based, Wilmar International Limited (Wilmar), today, jointly announced a definitive term for Wilmar to purchase the 50% equity in PZ Wilmar Limited (PZ Wilmar) held by London Stock Exchange-listed, PZ Cussons.
The deal, going for cash a consideration of $70million, is subject to a number of relevant approvals, and is expected to be inked in the last quarter of 2025, according to a joint statement made available to Sustainable Economy Nigeria (SEN).
Following the completion of the transaction, Wilmar will hold 100% equity in PZ Wilmar.
Formed in 2010 through a joint venture (JV) between PZ Cussons plc (UK) and Wilmar, PZ Wilmar is one of the largest sustainable palm oil businesses in Nigeria.
PZ Wilmar’s edible cooking oils, sold under the brand names: Mamador and Devon King’s, are market leaders in Nigeria.
The JV also owns minority stakes in two palm oil plantations in Nigeria, which are majority owned by Wilmar.
Wilmar, a leading agribusiness group is ranked amongst the largest listed companies by market capitalisation on the Singapore Exchange.
However, the JV clarified that the deal does not include the operations of PZ Cussons Nigeria plc, a subsidiary of PZ Cussons plc, but is not a shareholder of PZ Wilmar.
The statement also explained that following completion of the transaction, PZ Wilmar’s name will be changed, and an announcement on the new name will be issued in due course.
Additionally, the transaction between the two existing JV partners of PZ Wilmar, establishes a strong basis for continuity and a smooth transition of ownership, with no substantive impact expected on people or operations.
The Nigerian market’s strong demographics, with more than 200 million consumers, offers a significant opportunity for growth in food and nutrition.
Market position
Commenting on the transaction, Wilmar Chairman & CEO, Kuok Khoon Hong, was quoted as saying: “We would like to thank PZ Cussons for their cooperation and support since inception of this joint venture in 2010, which has contributed to its success and leading market position in Nigeria.
“Wilmar is acquiring PZ Cussons plc’s 50% stake in PZ Wilmar as we are bullish on the long- term potential of Nigeria’s palm oil sector, given its large and growing population and suitability for palm cultivation.
“The Nigerian market’s strong demographics, with more than 200 million consumers, offers a significant opportunity for growth in food and nutrition.
“It is Wilmar’s intention to continue developing the upstream palm plantation and downstream businesses in Nigeria.
“As a global industry leader, Wilmar is well positioned to invest and realise these opportunities following the completion of the transaction.
“However, we recognise the importance of having strong local partnerships in the markets where we operate and will be looking for a suitable local partner for the business.”
Similarly, Jonathan Myers, CEO of PZ Cussons plc said: “Our joint venture with Wilmar in Nigeria has been a long-term and rewarding partnership for us both.
“I want to thank the Wilmar leadership for their support, and our PZW employees for their contribution and great results over the years.
PZ Wilmar is in the best possible hands to build further on its market leading position, while PZ Cussons continues to invest in and grow its core business.”
